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How to Cook Soy Curls (4 Flavors!)

Quick method for rehydrating and pan-frying soy curls with four seasoning options.
Prep Time12 minutes
Cook Time8 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Servings: 3 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 cups water
  • 4 ounces dry soy curls
  • 1 teaspoon imitation chicken bouillon concentrated paste or powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt plus more to taste
  • 2 tablespoons avocado oil or other high-heat oil
  • Italian Herb seasoning (option) 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Curry seasoning (option) 1 teaspoon salt-free curry powder
  • Tex-Mex seasoning (option) 1 teaspoon salt-free chili powder and 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Smoky Chipotle seasoning (option) 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika and 1/4–1/2 teaspoon chipotle powder

Instructions

  • Bring 2 cups water to a boil in a kettle or saucepan.
  • Place 4 ounces dry soy curls in a large bowl and add the imitation chicken bouillon; pour the boiling water over the soy curls and stir until the bouillon dissolves to create a broth.
  • Cover and let sit 5 minutes, until the soy curls have rehydrated and expanded.
  • Drain the soy curls well in a sieve or strainer, pressing with a bowl or spoon to remove excess liquid, then return them to the large bowl.
  • Add 1 teaspoon garlic powder and 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, plus your chosen seasoning variation (Italian, Curry, Tex-Mex, or Smoky Chipotle) and toss to combine.
  • Heat 2 tablespoons avocado oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  • Add the soy curls, toss to coat in oil, then spread them in an even layer and cook undisturbed 3 to 5 minutes until the bottoms are golden brown.
  • Flip or stir the soy curls and continue sautéing 2 to 3 more minutes until golden on the other side and crisped to your liking.
  • Remove from heat, taste and add more salt or spices if desired, then serve warm over bowls, soups, or as preferred.

Equipment

  • kettle or saucepan
  • Large Bowl
  • sieve or fine-mesh strainer
  • Large sauté pan
  • spatula or tongs
  • Measuring spoons

Notes

  • Soy curls are sold online and at some grocery stores and health-food retailers.
  • You can substitute vegetable bouillon if desired, but flavor will be less chicken-like.
  • Use the full 2 tablespoons oil for crispier edges.
  • To reduce oil, sauté in 2–3 teaspoons instead, though texture will be less crisp.
  • For oil-free cooking, sauté in water or vegetable broth, but expect a chewier texture.